Matthew Poole and continuators on Isaiah 4:1

AND in that day seven women shall take hold of one man , saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel : onely let us be called by thy name , to take away our reproach .

Of which he hath hitherto been speaking, Chap. 2. & 3. and still continueth to speak. In that calamitous time.

Many. A certain number for an uncertain.

Shall sue to him, and even lay hands upon him, contrary to their Custom, and their natural Modesty.

Because few Men shall survive that dreadful Stroke. They who before were not contented with their own Husbands, are now glad of a Seventh part of an Husband.

We will ease thee of that Charge, which otherwise would fall upon thee by Gods Law, Exod. 21. 10.

Own us for thy Wives.

Virginity was esteemed a Reproach, especially among that People, because it was a Token of Contempt from Men, and of the Curse of God; Children, the usual Fruit of Marriage, being both an Honour to their Parents before Men, and a great Blessing of God, especially to that People, from some of whose Loins the Mess[illegible: 1+ letters]ah was to spring.

Marginal references: Heb. let thy name be called upon us.; Or, take thou away.; Luk. 1. 25.